To support individuals suffering in poverty, recovering from addiction and potentially stuck in a cycle of dependency; to proceed to the next step in achieving a self-sustainable and fulfilling life. To address the broken cycle of dependency by encouraging Climbers to become Sherpas.

The Downtown Eastside

This neighborhood is one of the oldest in Vancouver, but is the city’s least economically stable. Many agencies provide services to this community, but solutions tend to be short-term. There is a need to help individuals fulfill their desire to give back to their community.

A hand up, not a hand out

People in receipt of long-term welfare and social assistance may struggle to be self-reliant: dependency on hand outs is a tough circle to break. These individuals may struggle on a daily basis to retain self-respect, with no end to their difficulties in clear sight.

These individuals may lack support, motivation and opportunities to exit their current situation. Over time, individuals are unable to see a future in which they might live independently

Objectives: a hand up

100 Success is establishing an online social network platform for individuals who have completed an addiction recovery program and have a desire to work towards a self-sustaining life. Its main goal is to help these individuals develop self-authored enterprises and meaningful projects that will enable them to move away from dependency. These individuals are referred to as Climbers. They will be recommended to 100 Success by recognized community worker. 100 Success actively seeks partnerships with a broad range of community groups.

By means of an interview process, Climbers are assisted to identify their goals, desires, skills and strengths. They are then helped to create a marketable business or meaningful project plan, and are introduced to an on-line platform with links to a community of volunteers: Sherpas.

Sherpas also Climbers establish milestones to mark their progress and encourage Climbers to share their stories of successes and setbacks with others in 100 Success community. Sherpas adhere to a Code of Conduct: for example, connecting with Climbers at least once a week.

Climbers who are successful will, in turn, join the Sherpa team for the next group of Climbers…Climbers giving back.